Varenyky, also known as Perogies, is a classic Ukrainian dish that brings comfort to every meal. These delicious dumplings are filled with a savory mix of potatoes, onions, and cheese, then boiled to perfection. The dough is easy to handle and stuff, creating a tender, chewy pocket for the hearty filling.
The ingredients for Varenyky are mostly pantry staples. However, one ingredient you might need to look for is evaporated milk, which is used in the dough. It's usually found in the baking aisle of supermarkets. Also, cheddar cheese is used in the filling. Opt for a sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.
Ingredients for Ukrainian Varenyky (Perogies)
Flour: The base for the dough, providing structure and texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough and filling.
Butter: Adds richness to both the dough and filling, and sautéed with onions for the filling.
Evaporated milk: Used in the dough for a rich flavor and tender texture.
Water: Helps to bring the dough together.
Potatoes: The main component of the filling, providing a hearty and starchy base.
Onions: Sautéed and mixed into the potato filling for additional flavor.
Cheddar cheese: Mixed into the potato and onion filling for a creamy, cheesy element.
Salt and pepper: Used to season the filling to taste.
One reader, Belvia Polanco says:
This Ukrainian varenyky recipe is a game-changer! The dough is so soft and the potato filling is incredibly flavorful. The process was a bit time-consuming, but the end result was totally worth it. I felt like a professional chef and my family absolutely loved it. Can't wait to make it again!
Essential Techniques for Making Ukrainian Varenyky
How to make the dough: Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the soft butter and evaporated milk. Stir gently until all the liquid is absorbed. Add water only as needed, kneading continuously until the dough sticks together. Place the dough into a greased bowl, turn to coat, and let it rest for 30 minutes.
How to make the potato filling: Place potatoes into a saucepan with water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside. Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Saute onions in butter until tender. Mix the onions into the potatoes along with the cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to shape the varenyky (perogies): Remove the dough from the bowl onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to ⅛-inch in thickness. Cut into 3-inch circles. Place 1 tablespoon of filling onto one side of the circle. Fold the other half over and press the edges to seal. Place finished dumplings onto a floured tray and keep covered.
How to cook the varenyky (perogies): Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Drop 10 or so dumplings into the water at a time. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, then remove to a colander to drain. Place finished dumplings onto a lightly oiled dish and turn them to coat with a thin layer to prevent sticking together.
How to serve the varenyky (perogies): Serve the dumplings with fried onions and sour cream.
How To Make Ukrainian Varenyky (Perogies)
Filled with cubed potatoes and cheddar cheese, this Ukrainian varenyky or perogies makes savory and buttery half moons for a scrumptious bite.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Dough:
- 5cupsall purpose flour
- 1tspsalt
- 2tbspbutter,softened
- 1cupevaporated milk
- ½cupwater
For Filling:
- 6medium potatoes,cut into small cubes
- 2large onions,finely chopped
- ½cupbutter
- 1cupcheddar cheese,shredded
- salt and pepper,to taste
Instructions
Dough:
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To make the dough, combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the soft butter and evaporated milk; stir gently until all the liquid is absorbed.
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Add water only as needed, kneading continuously until dough sticks together. Place dough into a greased bowl, turn to coat, and let rest for 30 minutes.
Filling:
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To make the potato filling, place potatoes into a saucepan with water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside. Melt butter in a medium skillet, over medium heat.
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Saute onions in butter until tender. Mix the onions into the potatoes along with the cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Remove the dough from the bowl onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out to ⅛-inch in thickness. Cut into 3-inch circles.
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Place 1 tablespoon of filling onto 1 side of the circle. Fold the other half over and press the edges to seal. Place finished dumplings onto a floured tray and keep covered.
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Drop 10 or so dumplings into the water at a time. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, then remove to a colander to drain. Place finished dumplings onto a lightly oiled dish and turn them to coat with a thin layer.
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This will keep them from sticking together. Serve dumplings with fried onions and sour cream.
Recipe Notes
- You can also make this recipe with a sauerkraut and cabbage filling, pour the 1 pound of drained sauerkraut into a large saucepan. In a medium skillet, saute 2 finely chopped large onions in ½ cup butter for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir the onions into the sauerkraut along with the 3 cups of finely shredded cabbage and 1 chicken bouillon cube. Cook over low heat until liquid evaporates. Season with pepper and remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool, then run through a grinder or food processor.
- Cooled dumplings also can be fried in oil and butter for a nice crispy surface.
Nutrition
- Calories: 529.16kcal
- Fat: 18.66g
- Saturated Fat: 11.16g
- Trans Fat: 0.62g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.75g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.01g
- Carbohydrates: 76.08g
- Fiber: 5.23g
- Sugar: 5.02g
- Protein: 14.47g
- Cholesterol: 51.28mg
- Sodium: 664.15mg
- Calcium: 194.37mg
- Potassium: 749.99mg
- Iron: 4.12mg
- Vitamin A: 148.39µg
- Vitamin C: 27.88mg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Ukrainian Varenyky
When preparing the varenyky dough, it's important to not overwork it. Over-kneading can result in a tough, chewy texture. Instead, knead just until the dough comes together and becomes smooth. This will ensure your perogies are tender and delicate. Additionally, when sealing the filled dough, make sure to press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out during boiling. A good seal also helps to maintain the shape of the perogies while they cook.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Perogies
Prepare the filling: To save time, consider making the filling in advance and refrigerating it until you're ready to assemble the varenyky. This can help streamline the cooking process.
Uniform shape: When cutting the dough into circles, use a round cutter or the mouth of a glass to ensure consistent sizing. This will help the varenyky cook evenly and look more professional.
Substitute Ingredients For Ukrainian Varenyky (Perogies) Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which will result in a chewier and more structured dough, similar to the texture of traditional varenyky dough.
evaporated milk - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can be used as a substitute for evaporated milk to maintain the richness and creaminess in the dough.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor to cheddar, making it a suitable substitute for the filling.
butter - Substitute with vegetable shortening: Vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute for butter in the dough to achieve a flakier texture.
potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a flavorful alternative to potatoes, adding a slightly sweet and nutty taste to the filling.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions to provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the filling.
Presenting Ukrainian Varenyky for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the plating: When plating the varenyky, pay attention to the arrangement and composition. Place the perogies in a deliberate and visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and presented with finesse.
Incorporate contrasting colors: Introduce vibrant and contrasting colors to the plate to make the dish visually striking. Consider adding a garnish of finely chopped chives or parsley to provide a pop of color against the golden-brown perogies.
Utilize elegant serving dishes: Opt for porcelain or ceramic serving dishes to showcase the varenyky. The use of high-quality serving ware adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Implement precise sauce drizzling: When serving the varenyky with sour cream, drizzle the sauce in a precise and artistic manner. Consider using a squeeze bottle to create elegant swirls or patterns on the plate, adding a professional touch to the presentation.
Incorporate edible garnishes: Introduce edible garnishes such as microgreens or edible flowers to add a touch of elegance and refinement to the dish. These delicate garnishes elevate the visual appeal of the varenyky, making them worthy of a Michelin-starred dining experience.
Consider the plate shape and size: Select a plate that complements the varenyky, ensuring that the size and shape of the plate enhance the overall presentation. The plate should frame the dish beautifully without overwhelming it.
Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to every detail of the presentation, from the placement of the perogies to the alignment of the garnishes. Each element should be thoughtfully arranged to create a visually stunning and appetizing presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Perogies
Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape the dough.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle used for boiling or making the potato filling.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for sautéing the onions and other ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining the cooked perogies.
Pot: A large cooking vessel used for boiling the perogies.
Storing and Freezing Ukrainian Varenyky
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Ukrainian varenyky (perogies):
- Allow the cooked varenyky to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, place the cooled varenyky in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the varenyky for later use:
- Arrange the cooled varenyky in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the varenyky are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen varenyky to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Frozen varenyky can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To cook frozen varenyky:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Carefully drop the frozen varenyky into the boiling water, stirring gently to prevent them from sticking together.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and the dough is tender.
- Remove the cooked varenyky with a slotted spoon and serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sautéed onions, sour cream, or melted butter.
How To Reheat Leftover Varenyky
Stovetop method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Place the leftover varenyky in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. This method will give your varenyky a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the filling warm and gooey on the inside.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover varenyky on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them with a little melted butter or olive oil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method is perfect if you want to reheat a large batch of varenyky at once.
Microwave method: While not the most ideal method, you can still use the microwave to reheat your leftover varenyky. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, checking after each interval, until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the dough to become tough and rubbery.
Air fryer method: If you have an air fryer, this is a fantastic way to reheat your leftover varenyky. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the varenyky in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are crispy and heated through. This method will give you crispy varenyky without the need for additional oil.
Steaming method: If you want to maintain the soft, pillowy texture of your varenyky, steaming is the way to go. Fill a pot with an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the leftover varenyky in a steamer basket and place the basket over the boiling water. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method will keep your varenyky moist and tender.
Interesting Trivia About Ukrainian Varenyky
Ukrainian varenyky are a traditional dish in Ukraine, often served during holidays and special occasions. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as potatoes, cheese, cabbage, or fruit. These dumplings are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a savory or sweet treat, depending on the filling.
Is Making Perogies at Home Cost-Effective?
This Ukrainian Varenyky (Perogies) Recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as potatoes, onions, and flour, are affordable and readily available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a versatile and satisfying option for any meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict rates this recipe at 9 out of 10 for its affordability, taste, and simplicity.
Are Ukrainian Varenyky Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Ukrainian varenyky (perogies) recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The dough is made with all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain flour.
- The filling contains a significant amount of butter and cheddar cheese, both high in saturated fat and calories.
- The cooking method involves boiling the dumplings and then coating them with oil, adding extra calories to the dish.
However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as potatoes and onions, which provide essential vitamins and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the dough.
- Reduce the amount of butter and cheese in the filling, or opt for lower-fat alternatives like cottage cheese or Greek yogurt.
- Instead of frying the onions in butter, sauté them in a small amount of olive oil, which is a healthier fat option.
- Boil the dumplings without coating them in oil afterwards, and serve them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal.
- Use low-fat sour cream or plain Greek yogurt as a topping instead of regular sour cream.
Editor's Opinion on This Ukrainian Varenyky Recipe
The Ukrainian varenyky (perogies) recipe is a classic and comforting dish that showcases the delicious combination of tender dough and flavorful potato filling. The dough is easy to work with and results in perfectly cooked perogies with a satisfying texture. The creamy potato and cheese filling, accented with sautéed onions, adds a rich and savory element to the dish. When served with fried onions and sour cream, these varenyky are a delightful treat that is sure to please any palate.
Enhance Your Ukrainian Varenyky (Perogies) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Ukrainian Varenyky (Perogies) Recipe:
This Ukrainian varenyky (perogies) recipe is a traditional family favorite, passed down through generations. The dough is made with simple, wholesome ingredients, ensuring a soft and tender texture. The potato and cheddar cheese filling is rich and flavorful, complemented by the savory sautéed onions. This recipe has been meticulously tested and perfected, guaranteeing delicious results every time. Trust in the authenticity and heritage of this recipe to bring the genuine flavors of Ukraine to your table. Enjoy the comforting and satisfying experience of making and savoring these homemade varenyky with your loved ones.
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